The Compass Casita range was a entry-level line-up when launched in 2017, but it was not a budget range of tourers. Based on the Elddis Avante, the Casita – along with Capiro and Camino ranges – had brought the Compass name back to the fore after an absence of six years.
The Casita consisted of a lightweight line-up of tourers, but with decent spec and an interior that looked upmarket, so they can be a tempting buy for those looking for the best used caravans. Kit for 2023 Casitas included Whale blown air heating, ATC, a microwave, oven, TV aerial and external BBQ point.
Model history
When it was relaunched in 2017, the Compass brand enabled Elddis to widen its dealer network. All three Compass ranges proved popular and they offered great value for money. Some Compass dealers also produced specials, adding more kit and extra value.
The Compass Casita for 2023 had seven models in its line-up, including three twin-axles, which were all 8ft wide caravans.
Launched for 2020, the 454 was a relatively compact tourer with an end bedroom and front lounge. It was a two-berth with a difference: this couple’s caravan could sleep an extra person at the front should the need arise, so perhaps it should have been marketed as a two/three berth.
They also added this particular layout in the Elddis Avante range, so buyers had a choice of light-wood (from the Avante) or dark-wood (from the Compass) furniture finish.
Surprisingly, the 454 was not classed as a great seller, and was eventually dropped from the Elddis range. In fact, 2023 would also be Compass’s final year.
It may no longer be produced, but we think that the Compass Casita 454 makes a good used caravan to buy if you’re looking for a relatively new two-berth tourer.
Price checker
So how much does a good Compass Casita 454 cost? We found that £17,495 to £18,995 was the price to look at.
Dealer specials offer a nice bit of additional value when it comes to kit for not much more money, so we reckon that it’s well worth keeping an eye out for one.
- 454: £17,495-£18,995
- 550: £20,495-£21,995
- 554: £20,995-£21,495
- 585: £21,995-£22,195
- 840: £22,895-£22,995
- 860: £23,405-£23,995
- 868: £23,995-£24,295
What to look out for in the Compass Casita 454 (2023)
- Dents in the side panels
- Pitting on grab handles
- Front-end damp
- Damage to the caravan tyres and alloys
- Floor delamination
- Cracking in rear panel
- Interior panel strip tape coming away
Verdict
The Compass Casita 454 that we looked at really was in first-class condition. The microwave still had the packaging in it from new, and the hob also looked unused.
No matter which model you look at, try to get a service record and make sure that the dealer has checked for any cracked panels and damp.
The 454 is a great tourer for two but some Compass models did have issues. As long as they have been corrected, you should get a very decent tourer.
Alternative models
If you like the layout of the Casita 454, but not the dark wood, look out for dealer specials of the same model, such as a 2023 Supreme 454. With its GRP sides, a more plush interior and extra kit, you should look to pay around £20,195.
Or, if you want a two- berth with a good end washroom and more kit, a Swift Challenger 480 from 2023 costs from £19,995 to £20,995 (or alternatively, see what we made of a more up-to-date version, the 2026 Swift Challenger 480).
Alternatively, perhaps you like the thought of an older tourer, in which case the 2014 Lunar Lexon 540 could be worth a look, a tourer which provides a nice bit of tourer for the money.
Tech specs
- Price: £17,499
- Berths: 2
- MiRO: 1182kg
- Payload: 128kg
- MTPLM: 1310kg
- Internal length: 5.17m
- Width: 2.26m
Seen at
Spinney, Knutsford Road, Crewe CW4 8HJ
- Tel: 01477 535 808
- Web: spinney.co.uk
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